Posted on August 15, 2024

How to Buy a Boat Lift: Factors to Consider When Shopping

Written by HydroHoist Marketing

• How to Buy a Boat Lift: Introduction  

  When shopping for a boat lift system, it’s easy to see the price tag and overlook the plethora of benefits they offer. Ask any seasoned seafarer, and most would say that the convenience provided by quality lifts alone would be worth the upfront costs. With a boat lift, you can easily launch and retrieve your watercraft without the hassles of trailering, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your boat.  

  Storing your boat on a lift when not in use also protects it from the damaging effects of prolonged water exposure, preventing issues like hull blisters, marine growth, and corrosion. This protection from the elements reduces the need for frequent repairs and makes it easier to perform routine maintenance. Overall, investing in a quality boat lift is essential for preserving the appearance, performance, and value of your precious vessel. 

  For more information, read our post on How Does A Boat Lift Work? 

  Determining the Right Boat Lift Size and Type  

  While there are several considerations when buying a boat lift, choosing one with the appropriate weight capacity is the most important. Ensure the lift can support the wet weight of your fully loaded boat, including all the gear and equipment stored onboard. A good rule of thumb is to choose a system capable of lifting 20-25% more than your boat’s wet weight, as overloading a lift can lead to mechanical failure and potential damage to your boat. 

  Your lift should be wide and deep enough to cradle the boat securely and comfortably, as length considerations may vary depending on the lift type. For instance, a boat lift with a cradle system requires enough length to accommodate the entire hull. Meanwhile, larger vessels with V-shaped hulls require lifts with bunks a few inches longer than the widest portion of the watercraft.

  Factoring in your typical waterfront conditions is also critical when buying a boat lift. For example, areas with significant water level fluctuations require a floating lift or a system with adjustable legs. Meanwhile, rougher waters necessitate a more robust and stable lifting solution. 

  Installation Requirements  

  Before proceeding with boat lift installation, check the local regulations in your area. Local governments often have zoning laws, which may include specific guidelines on the types of structures allowed near water bodies. In Florida, for example, all docks cannot extend more than 500 feet waterward, while residential docks must moor no more than two boats (Florida Department of Environmental Protection, n.d.). 

  Here are some other installation considerations to keep in mind:

  • Space Requirements: Measure your docking area’s width, length, and depth to confirm that it can accommodate the lift without obstructing other dock activities. Limited space or narrow waterways might require a lift that has a smaller footprint, such as a floating boat lift.
  • Water Depth: Install the lift where it can function without obstruction from underwater debris or the lake/river bed and have sufficient clearance between the bottom of the boat and the ground to avoid damage.
  • Power Supply: If you’re equipping your system with a boat lift motor, ensure your dock has safe access to a reliable power supply. As noted by an Angi article, “To stay safe and compliant with the National Electrical Code®, your outlets will need GFCI protection if they are within six feet of a sink or anywhere else likely to come into contact with water (Angi, 2023).”

  Consult the waterfront experts at HydroHoist to get boat lift installation instructions and tailored recommendations based on specific boat and waterfront conditions, ensuring the lift system operates safely, effectively, and within the bounds of local guidelines.  

  Maintenance and Longevity  

  Like any equipment, regular maintenance is vital to ensuring the reliability and longevity of boat lifts. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

  • Inspections: Perform regular checks for signs of wear and tear, such as loose connections, corrosion, frayed cables, or bent parts. Early detection of these issues can prevent more significant (and costly) problems later. 
  • Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure smooth operation and minimize wear and tear. 
  • Cleaning: Regularly rinse the lift components with fresh water to remove dirt, algae, and other debris. This is especially important in more corrosive saltwater environments. 
  • Winterization: If you live in a region with freezing temperatures, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for winterizing the lift. This may involve draining fluids, protecting exposed components, and disconnecting batteries to prevent damage.   
  • Covering: Consider installing a boat lift canopy for the utmost protection from the elements. Constant exposure to UV rays, rain, and snow can wear down your boat and lift.  

   

  Finally, schedule periodic preventive maintenance services. Professionals can spot and address potential issues that might not be apparent to the untrained eye. If you experience any problems with the lift operation, contact your local dealer immediately.

  Why Choose HydroHoist for Your Boat Lift         

  Since 1964, HydroHoist has led the market with award-winning innovation and engineering, providing unrivaled protection for boats, personal watercraft (PWC), and docks. Our boat lifting systems fit nearly every vessel make and model on the water today, from pontoons and tritoons to fishing and ski boats. To further enhance the versatility of our docking solutions, we offer a wide range of dock and boat lift accessories, ensuring our systems meet our customers’ diverse requirements. 

  Moreover, when you choose HydroHoist, you get access to the largest dealer network across North America, combining local knowledge with the expertise of one of the industry’s most trusted brands. Contact your local HydroHoist dealer today and experience the convenience, safety, and peace of mind that come with a reliable boat lift system. 

  References:

  • Florida Department of Environmental Protection (n.d.). Dock Permitting in Florida. Retrieved from https://floridadep.gov/sites/default/files/SWD_Dock%20Permitting%20in%20Florida-D5_FINAL_0.pdf 
  • Angi (Sept. 7, 2023). Where Are GFCI Outlets Required? A Complete Guide. Retrieved from https://www.angi.com/articles/what-gfci-outlet.htm 

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